Things to consider before applying - Bar or night club

There are things you will need to consider, including licence requirements, before applying for a licence to run a bar or night club.

Applicants are advised to lodge liquor licence applications at least eight weeks in advance. The time taken to process an application will vary depending on a range of factors including the complexity of the application and any objections which may be raised.

It's a condition of on-premises or late night (on-premises) licences that the use of the licensed premises does not breach the planning scheme under the Planning and Environment Act 1987.

Applicants are required to provide a copy of the following information with their application:

A planning permit; or

A copy of an application for a planning permit; or

Evidence that a planning permit is not required to supply liquor as allowed for by the licence type you are applying for. This evidence may be a letter from the local council (or responsible planning authority) or a copy of the relevant planning scheme.

This ensures that the activities undertaken are consistent and appropriate for that area. For example, a licensee cannot operate a night club in an area where night club activity is not permitted under the local planning zone restrictions.

If you want to extend your trading hours after 1am, you will need to apply for a late night (on-premises) licence.

Note that a freeze is currently in place on granting applications to trade after 1am in the local government areas of Melbourne, Port Phillip, Stonnington and Yarra unless there are exceptional circumstances.